Skip to content

Our History


filmstrip

The spirit of friendship, community and unity among Canadian golf operators has been at the heart of the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) Canada since its very beginning, and the story of how the NGCOA Canada came to exist is an invigorating study in how passion, initiative, and friendship can build a powerful and progressive community for the good of an entire industry.

It all began in 1992 when a handful of Ottawa area golf course owners, led by Mark Seabrook, embarked on a vision of establishing an owners’ group similar to that operating in the United States. These operators believed that sharing information, keeping open lines of communication, and using collective buying power to negotiate for better pricing and stronger discounts from suppliers was the best way to run more profitable and efficient golf operations. 

Turns out they were right.   

Under the leadership of a devoted board of directors and Jeff Calderwood, CEO of NGCOA Canada, the association has experienced tremendous growth in membership, benefits, regional chapters, finances, and staff during the 30+ years.

In addition, NGCOA Canada now commands substantial credibility in the industry with respect to government advocacy, media relations, suppliers, golfers, other golf associations, and golf course operators.

With the head office in Ottawa, NGCOA Canada reaches across the country where members benefit from 8 regional chapters and representation on the NGCOA Canada Board of Directors by operators from each of these regions.